NEW YORK –– No excretory function is left unexamined in “Jackass 3-D” (Paramount), the third feature-length installment of violent and bizarre stunts performed by Johnny Knoxville, Steve-O, Wee Man and the rest.
In their attempt to top the past two films, director Jeff Tremaine and writer (so to speak) Preston Lacy take the denizens of the cult MTV television series way beyond potty humor, freak-show antics and messy crashes; here they descend into a dark pornographic netherworld of sick obsessions and sexual violence.
Rather than an expression of genuine amusement, Knoxville’s characteristic cackling comes across as the cynical bray of someone who knows the theater audience has already paid its money. The big gimmick here, for those who might care, isn’t 3-D, but slow-motion close-ups of rubbery faces being pummeled by flying objects or spring-loaded contraptions.
The film contains repellent scatological images, frontal male nudity, constant sexual and body-part references and pervasive profane, rough and crude language. The Catholic News Service classification is O – morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
Jensen is a guest reviewer for Catholic News Service. More reviews are available online.
